Katherine Lavern Goostree, age 90 of Salem, passed away on Monday, April 7, 2025 at Helia Healthcare in Salem.

Katherine was born on September 9, 1934 in Stevenson Township the daughter of Lloyd and Lovell (Bryant) Gaston. She married Ellis “Sonny” Goostree on August 9, 1951 in Salem and he preceded her in death on February 26, 2020.

She is survived by a son, James Goostree and significant other Debbie Scarbrough of Salem; daughter, Becky Hall of Salem; son-in-law, Michael Pannell; six grandchildren, Bryce Goostree, Kylie Goostree, Breanna Goostree, Tammy Staton, Stephanie Conner and Chad Sporleder; several great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren; one nephew, Gary; one niece, Cindy; one brother, Randy Gaston and wife Nancy; and several friends and other relatives.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; son, Todd Goostree; daughter, Bonnie Pannell; son-in-law, Joe Hall; and many other relatives and friends.

Katherine was a devoted member of the First General Baptist Church in Salem. She loved her job at the Bryan-Bennett Library which she held for 23 years. She loved to cook, enjoyed looking around resale shops and rummage sales, visiting with friends and spending time with her family.

A graveside service for Katherine Lavern Goostree will be held at 1:30 pm on Wednesday, April 16, 2025 at Paradise Cemetery in Salem with Loyd Slater officiating. Memorials can be made to Harvey’s Point Cemetery or the First General Baptist Church Youth Group and can be received at Crouse Funeral Home in Salem. Online condolences can be left at www.CrouseFH.com